The genes we’ve identified don’t directly cause ME/CFS on their own, but their genetic differences do increase the likelihood of someone develops ME/CFS, much like how certain genes are linked to conditions such as diabetes or Parkinson’s. They are an important piece of the puzzle, but not the whole picture. Having one or more of these genetic differences does not fully determine whether someone will get ME/CFS. There are likely many contributing causes of ME/CFS, but these findings help us point towards more specific biological pathways involved in the development of the condition.